Movie Loner

It’s a cliche, but they don’t make movies like The Fabulous Baker Boys anymore. No special effects, no massive explosions, no prolonged car chases, no inane plot twists, and no costumed superheroes. Instead there is an original script, sharp direction, and superb acting. One of my favorite films features one of the truly great performances I’ve ever seen courtesy of the alluring Michelle Pfieffer.

Frank and Jack Baker (Beau and Jeff Bridges) have been playing piano at small clubs and lounges for thirty years. Times are tough and the gigs aren’t bringing in crowds like they used to. To jump-start their ailing business the Baker brothers decide to hire a singer. A painful day of auditions comes to a promising end once Suzie Diamond (Pfeiffer) arrives. The unrefined former escort wows the boys with her silky voice. A duo becomes a trio and soon after the money and audiences start flowing.

A road trip to a luxurious mountain hotel has the bickering Baker brothers at odds. Dorky family man Frank clashes with brooding loner Jack. Stuck in the middle is Suzie, a headstrong young woman with a bruised past. A mutual attraction between Jack and Suzie develops, much to Frank’s chagrin. Frank warns his little bro to stay away from her, but a family emergency calls him home, leaving charming Jack and sexy Suzie alone on New Year’s Eve. Will their budding relationship destroy thirty years of success for the Baker brothers?

I’ve praised Writer/Director Steve Kloves before in my review of Flesh and Bone. It’s hard to believe he’s only directed two movies. A master at crafting broken characters with veiled demons, Kloves possesses a savvy wit as well. The interaction between Beau Bridges and Pfieffer scores big laughs. Jeff Bridges kills playing the immensely gifted but damaged Jack. However, Pfeiffer is the real star; she’s striking as Suzie, boasting a dynamite singing voice. The Fabulous Baker Boys deserved much more attention when it was released. Take the opportunity to discover this extraordinary film.

A scene from The Fabulous Baker Boys: